trifern's Workshop

I just recently started woodworking again(about a year ago). I have not done anything since high school shop class 25 years ago. I had a great teacher. I built from maple a love seat, dinning room table, and a queen bed while under his wing. I am just beginning to aquire tools for my shop located in the 3rd stall of my garage. This fall I had a gas heater installed. The tools I have aquired to date are as follows:Jet table sawFrued routerRockler router table top mounted to built cabinet on rollersLeigh Super 18 dovetail jigJet air filtrationDuracraft dust collectorDuracraft bench top drill presscombination disc & belt sanderCraftsman compound miter sawKreg pocket hole kitPorter Cable pancake air compressorPorter Cable 18 gauge nailervarious power hand tools – orbital sander, belt sander, drills, jig saw, circular saw…

Greg, I have not used it a lot, but I do like it. I like the versatility of variable spacing. I have not accomplished much but turning since I bought a lathe in March. I do intend on using it more soon.

Hi Joe, it looks like you’re well on your way. Be sure to post any projects with the Liegh jig, I’d like to see them. Also, what kind of lathe did you purchase to do all those great turnings you’ve done lately?

“3rd stall of my garage”, does this mean you have at least two others? Sounds nice and roomy. FYI: If it’s cold in there I saw a segment on HGTV on how to insulate your garage doors. You can use flexible foil lined foam so that it beds if you have an automatic style door. And don’t forget the photos of your workshop!

-- "They who dream by day are cognizant of many things which escape those who dream only by night." ~ Edgar Allan Poe

re G0462 “It is not my ideal lathe, but it has served me well for the price point.”

Just out of curiosity’s sake, what does it lack (other than a low speed) what would be your ideal lathe?? You have inspired me into thinking of getting into turning, and am trying to figure out what to look for.

My Grizzly lathe has turned out some nice projects so far. I have not been overly impressed with it though. I started turning when I purchased it in March of 2008. Since that time I have replaced the belt 6 times, both sets of fly wheels twice, new bearings, new tool rest, and the tool rest quick releases. The machine is noisy, vibrates, and the headstock and footstock rarely line up.

If I were to purchase an economical starter lathe, I would buy the Jet mini with variable speed. My ideal lathe, at this moment, would be a Stubby. My middle of the road, and will probably purchase next, is the Powermatic. Vicmark and Oneway also make great equipment.